Florence police chief to remain on suspension
The Florence Chief of Police will remain on suspension for another month following a decision Monday night by the city council.
Following a 10-minute executive session, the council voted to extend police chief Merlin Stout's suspension without pay until April 19.
Stout was suspended Feb. 16 following allegations of sexual battery. Stout's next court appearance is set for 9:45 a.m. April 13. The council is waiting on the court decision before deciding Stout's future with the city.
In an unrelated matter, council members learned the poles and lights illuminating the entrance to Johnson's General Store on U.S.-50 had finally been installed.
"It's all up except for one light and that's just because they ran out of time," explained city clerk Darla Gore.
Getting the lighting updated has been an ongoing process for the city for quite some time.
In other matters, the council:
— Approved sending city employee Ken Hoffman to waste water school.
— Accepted a proclamation noting that April is Fair Housing Month.
— Approved the use of Grandview City Park July 17 for the T-Roy Memorial Rod Run.
— Approved renewing the city's property and health insurance with Bill Henrichs of Insurance Planning Center of Emporia.
— Tabled discussion regarding cracks in the roof of the clear well. Council noted they wished to conduct more research before making a decision.
— Decided to conduct more research before making a decision regarding the presence of copper and lead in city water.
— Heard framing is up for new restrooms in Grandview Park and a sidewalk to the facility has been poured. Harold Van Buren, a former Florence resident, is donating the park project to the city.
